Maybe

By Kobi Yamada, illustrated by Gabriella Barouch 
Compendium, 2019
Picture book, 40 pages, ages 4+

Have you ever wondered why you are here? 

You are the only you there ever has been or ever will be.

You have so much to offer.

A girl and her piglet go on a gentle, fantastical journey of discovery – contemplating the whys of life and all its potential. Is anything possible? Maybe…

Kobi Yamada’s text is inspirational and sincere. The book is dedicated to his kids, and his love shines through in every word. At times, however, he gets a little sentimental and cliche, which is the reason for the half star deduction. 

The artwork is the star in Maybe. The illustrations are gorgeous, gentle, full of wonder and whimsy. They carry the story. Absolutely beautiful and a strong debut for Gabriella Barouch.

Will kids like this book? Some kids will love it (if they’re like me; I would have spent hours poring over these illustrations when I was a kid) but really, this is more a picture book for adults.

Overall, this is a nice bedtime story or a great graduation or other milestone gift.

Maybe by Kobi Yamada: 4½ stars